I’ve been working mostly at home for over a year now and I love it. But some of you are just starting your telework journey. The adjustment can be difficult, but I think there are some major benefits to the freedom that working at home brings.

One of these is the ability to take more breaks and not be stuck in a cubicle under fluorescent lights all day. I’ve worked in state government for over 12 years and the gray cubicle life was something I lived every day. There were windows but I was never lucky enough to sit near one. Our office also has these claustrophobic, windowless meeting rooms - not a fun place to work.

Get some fresh air and get outside

Not only is getting up from our desk beneficial for our bodies and gives us the opportunity to move move, working from home also makes it easier for us to get outside. Yes, I probably should have gone on more walks when working in the office, but I’ll be honest, the three flights of stairs to get out of the building held me back. It’s ok, you can call me lazy.

I’m sure you’ve heard before that it’s good for you to get outside. Well here’s a few reminders why:

1. Walking in nature boosts memory. According to a study from University of Michigan, walking among trees boosts memories up to 20% more than walks in the city.

2. Spending even just 20 minutes in a park is enough to increase well-being according to research in the International Journal of Environmental Health Research

3. Plus getting outside means you’re getting more movement and Vitamin D and exposure to early morning light is linked with better sleep at night.

Sometimes during my work day I slip out for a quick break and take my shoes off to walk on the grass. Grounding, or earthing, is the idea that positive charges from the earth can work like antioxidants and improve immune system defense.

There has been little research on the impacts of grounding, but some research has show that it benefits cardiovascular health, healing, stress, depression, and fatigue,

While the research may be limited, my thought is, why not try it. You never know what simple changes can be beneficial.

So tell me, are you getting outside and taking more breaks while we’re staying home more? Just because we’re at home doesn’t mean we have to be stuck inside!